NOVEMBER 2011
Making Beautiful Music Ludwig Symphony Orchestra spotlights local talent Page 20
Giving Thanks
Northside women look back on year past
Family
TRADITIONS
Page 36
Sharing favorite Thanksgiving recipes Page 8
670 670 North North Main Main St., St., Alpharetta, Alpharetta, GA GA 30009 30009 770-619-0435 770-619-0435
10591 10591 Old Old Alabama Alabama Rd. Rd. Conn, Conn, Alpharetta, Alpharetta, GA GA 30022 30022 770-998-9500 770-998-9500
12315 12315 Crabapple Crabapple Rd., Rd., Roswell, Roswell, GA GA 30004 30004 770-772-0113 770-772-0113
6000 6000 Medlock Medlock Bridge Bridge Pkwy., Pkwy., Johns Johns Creek, Creek, GA GA 30022 30022 770-418-2828 770-418-2828
Grocery Grocery •• Health Health & & Beauty Beauty •• Vitamins/Supplements Vitamins/Supplements www.naturalfoodswarehouse.com www.naturalfoodswarehouse.com
2 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
In an emergency, experience matters Emergencies happen. And when they do, rest assured that you’ll get the best care close to home. Northside’s board-certified emergency medicine physicians and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certified nurses are just right up the road. We hope we don’t have to see you, but if we do, you’ll be in the best possible hands. Visit us online at www.northside.com.
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 3
publisher
Christina Appen
christina@northsidewoman.com
editorial
Candy Waylock Katie VanBrackle editor@northsidewoman.com
thecover
main office 770.442.3278 770.475.1216 (fax) 319 north main street alpharetta, ga 30009
The Ludwig Symphony Orchestra (LSO),
led
by
world-renowned
conductor and composer Thomas Ludwig, offers the spotlight to talented emerging artists in the metro Atlanta area. Opera singer Maria Clark and violinist Angela Kim, both extremely talented local artists, will perform at the LSO’s Nov. 19 concert at the Gwinnett Center. DEVON MORG
AN/PHOTOSY
sales executives
DeShea@northsidewoman.com Hans@northsidewoman.com Helen@northsidewoman.com June@northsidewoman.com Linda@northsidewoman.com Lynn@northsidewoman.com Mike@northsidewoman.com Wendy@northsidewoman.com
NTHESIS STUDI
O
publisher’snote
sales assistant
economic
this year, while others are working through
malaise, the unrest overseas (as well as in
challenges. I think you will find their stories
our own backyards!), there is still so much to
inspiring.
Despite
advertising@northsidewoman.com
production
Kelly Brooks David Brown Kellie Jureka Geoffrey Thurow production@northsidewoman.com
associate publisher
Ray Appen ray@northsidewoman.com
the
lingering
be thankful for as we wind down the year.
We also recognize that food is the
I always think about the poem that talks
cornerstone of this month. So we’ve filled this
about being blessed in the most simple of
issue to near bursting with recipes passed
terms….
down from generations, family favorite
“if you woke up this morning with more
recipes, as well as a few healthy ideas to
health than illness, you are more blessed
get through the holidays without too much
than the million who won't survive the
guilt! See my personal recipe on page 35.
week….if you have food in your refrigerator,
And for those of you with an abundance
clothes on your back, a roof over your head
of blessings, and a desire to give back, we’ve
and a place to sleep, you are richer than
included a number of organizations which
75% of this world…”
would love your help this holiday season
I always look forward to the November
(and year round). These organizations work
issue of Northside Woman because it gives us
tirelessly around the clock to help those in
the opportunity to truly focus on the subject
need in our community, and we applaud
of Thanks. We revisit several Northside
the work they do.
DEVON MORGAN/PHOTOSYNTHESIS STUDIO
women we have featured throughout the
We hope you are surrounded by friends,
Devon Morgan opened PhotoSynthesis Studio in 2004 after graduating with a degree in photojournalism from the University of Georgia. To complement the documentary style she learned in school, Morgan studied with several local photographers to master the subtle nuances of fine art portraiture, giving her clients a cohesive blend of natural emotion and beautiful lighting. She lives in Peachtree Corners with her St. Bernard, Stella. See her work at www.PhotoSynthesisAtlanta.com.
years to ask them what they are thankful for.
family and happiness this month. Have a
Some have seen immeasurable blessings
Happy Thanksgiving!
Northside Woman is published monthly and distributed free throughout north metro Atlanta. ©2011 Appen Newspapers Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher.
nextmonth
• celebrate the holidays • local dance theatres
4 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
Are you a writer, photographer or artist, or just have something to share with us?
e-mail us at: editor@northsidewoman.com
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shereads
The Wexford Book Club, from left, Jancy Reavis, Lisa Gittings, Mary Beebe, Pam Troutman, Laurie Cullen, Jennifer Kardian, Laura Bishop, Carolyn Osborne, Kelly Ehrhardt, Jennifer Koon and Katie Abraham.
Reading with the women of Wexford Roswell neighbors find creative ways to have fun with books STORY & PHOTO BY
The Wexford Book Club members
The Outsiders was the cutest…Rob
the man who sought to destroy it.
KATIE VANBRACKLE
take turns hosting a book discussion
kvanbrackle@bellsouth.net
every six weeks or so, and many
At another memorable meeting,
hostesses add themed touches to
local author Lynn Cullen joined the
complement the book’s setting or
Wexford ladies to discuss her novel
characters.
The Creation of Eve. Kardian says
Borthwick Cheney, who became the
On a chilly night in October, Laura Bishop added logs to the fire pit
Lowe? Matt Dillon? Patrick Swayze?
Loving Frank By Nancy Horan This
is
the
story
of
Mamah
in her backyard as neighbors arrived
The very first book that the group
that many authors are willing to have
lover of renowned architect Frank
bearing cheese spreads, pumpkin
read was John Shors’ Beneath a
phone conferences or online chats
Lloyd Wright. Horan vividly portrays
bread and bottles of wine. S’mores
Marble Sky, which dealt with the
with book clubs.
the conflicts and struggles of a
and blankets were ready for a cozy
construction of the Taj Mahal in India.
gathering of the Wexford Book Club.
Special
The
night
sky
and
crackling
cardomam
cookies
and
Indian tea were served.
“It never hurts to ask, especially
woman forced to choose between
if they live locally,” she said. “Check
the roles of mother, wife, lover and
out your author’s website to see if
intellectual.
fire made a perfect backdrop for
One particularly fun book club
discussing Dianne Setterfield’s gothic
event was the result of being stuck in
personal
ghost story, The Thirteenth Tale.
a book rut, Kardian recalled.
conferences.”
they offer contact information for appearances
or
Skype
American Wife By Curtis Sittenfield
No matter the book choice, the
Small town girl Alice Lindgren
book club four years ago as a way
featuring
struggling
Wexford ladies enjoy the excuse
is admitted into a world of privilege
to get together with other women in
women like A Thousand Splendid Suns,
to spend time together. Kardian
when
Roswell’s Wexford neighborhood on
Sarah’s Key and Snow Flower and the
spoke for the group when she said,
Republican president, but finds her
a regular basis. She said the group
Secret Fan. They were great books,
“Sometimes
club,
private beliefs increasingly run against
started off with around 12 members,
but they left us kind of depressed. We
sometimes it’s group therapy, but our
her public persona. The engrossing
then grew to over 20 once word got
decided we needed to perk things
book club is always something I look
story of her struggle exposes the many
out about how much fun the ladies
up a bit!”
forward to.”
peculiarities of political life.
Jennifer Kardian organized the
were having.
“We read a string of books repressed
or
The solution came in the form of
The
it’s
a
Wexford
drinking
Book
“I wouldn’t classify us as a serious
Rob Lowe’s gossipy memoir Stories
book club,” Kardian admits. “There
I Only Tell My Friends. An “80s Night”
have been times when the book
was planned in homage to the
Beneath a Marble Sky
heyday of Lowe’s film career.
By John Shors
discussion became a chore and we decided to bag it and just chat
“It was a blast!” said Kardian.
her
husband
becomes
a
Club
Open
recommends the following titles:
By Andre Agassi Groomed to be a tennis champion by his demanding father, by the age
Set at the height of the Mughal the
celebrity and the game’s highest
collars, pegged jeans and even a
remarkable lives of those responsible
honors, but was often confused and
Madonna wannabe!”
instead! We’ve loved many books
“Wine
and not liked a few, but what I think we all agree upon is the fun we have
coolers,
flipped
hair
and
Empire,
this
novel
recreates
of 22 Agassi had achieved wealth,
for the Taj Mahal’s existence, from
unfulfilled by a sport he had come to
getting together under the guise
The ladies relived their teen years,
the famous lovers who inspired it,
resent. Agassi candidly writes about
of intellectual discussion and the
talked about their proms and held
Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, to
his marriage to Brooke Shields and
analysis of books!”
debates over which cast member of
the architect who designed it and
the highs and lows of his career.
6 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
Tree Lighting
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 7
goodeats NORTHSIDE WOMAN
Staff Recipes 3 cups mashed boiled potatoes 1 tsp. vanilla 1 1/2 cups sugar 1/2 cup milk 1 cup light brown sugar 1 stick butter 1/3 cup flour 1 cup chopped pecans Mix first 4 ingredients and spread in casserole dish. Mix
CASSEROLE
last 4 ingredients and top sweet potatoes. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Thanksgiving just wouldn't be the same without some of our family's favorite dishes. This sweet potato casserole is such a delicious sweet treat to top off a great Thanksgiving Day feast! — —D DeS eSh hea ea Looft, Advertising
L-GOOD ULTIMATE FEE SIA SALAD MBRO PISTACHIO A udding mix. mayo and p
&
fruit, the drained Then fold in y Ingredients: nl ve at it's e iner each and mix so th with e Large conta m sa d e o th d whippe distributed. D nd a of refrigerate ll hi t C ur g s. w yo llo vanilla e marshma th ings rv topping and se mount of mayonnaise serve. The a n o Tablespoon tly a re g ends pistachio it yields dep 2 packages nd a u yo m o how much ro er pudding mix have left aft can (or s d st ize ue -s g rd ur a yo al! e 1 stand m g in nksgiv se of the that big Tha to jar, in the ca ils fa r d e ve in h of dra This recipe ne ring cherries) eac e th a g ny a , t le app make a hit a crushed pine to all ages. It es and ng ra o rin a and appeals nd ma s e rri he utes to throw schino c takes just min halved mara f o e m why I like it so so to d n ad gether. As to l (optional: ca na o me says it all! ice for additi much, the na the cherry ju mething ouldn’t like so w ho W r) vo er a fla and fluffy aft arshmallows sweet, fruity Bag of mini-m large dinner? Instructions: r, Advertising lend the June Meltze — Thoroughly b ping, yogurt, whipped top
PUMPKIN BREAD/MUFF INS
¾ cup shorte ning 2 2/3 cup su gar 4 eggs 1 16oz. can pumpkin 2/3 cup wate r ½ tsp. baking powder 3 ½ cups flour 2 tsp. baking soda 1 ½ tsp. salt 1 tsp. cinnam on 1 tsp. cloves 2/3 cup date s or raisins
Cream short ening and sugar togeth er. Add egg s, pumpkin and water. In a separate bo wl, combine baking pow der, flour, ba king soda, salt and sp Combine with ices. pumpkin mixture. Ad d raisins or d ates. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes for m uffins or one
hour for brea d. Yield: 18 muffins plus one loaf, or three loaf pans. The bread fre ezes very well. It’s grea t to have the se muffins on ha nd to serve to houseguests for breakfast when you’re focusing on the big dinne r. My daught er loves to bake and enjoys experimentin g with this recipe. She o ften comple tes the recipe up to adding th e raisins and th en makes a third of the m uffins without the fruit (for my husband who does no t like raisins in his muffins). She splits the rest of the batter a nd adds raisi ns to half and c hocolate chi ps to the other half. All three variations are great. —Lynn Dans on, Advertisi ng
MORE RECIPES: PAGES 16, 30-31 & 35 8 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
SPECIAL
AUNT ESTELLE’S SWEET POTATO
Personal Chef Leslie Guria cooks healthy in her home kitchen.
Simple steps to a healthy flavorful holiday feast By LESLIE GURIA
mash them with a bit of the water they
Personal Chef
were boiled in, add just a touch of sugar or maple syrup, then serve as is or broil for a
Start
your
countdown…the
eating
season is about to begin!
minute with a few marshmallows along the edge of the baking dish as a garnish.
Being a personal chef means my guests
Veggies ► Offer your guests plenty
will have high culinary expectations, and I
of veggies as both appetizers and side
don’t plan to disappoint. But what I cook
dishes. Roast Brussels sprouts with chopped
this year will leave my guests gloriously
shallots, a little olive oil, walnuts and fresh
well fed -- without lulling them into an after
lemon juice. Carrots are delicious when
dinner, fat-induced coma.
cooked in homemade chicken broth.
With a few minor changes, your
Use a pressure cooker to quickly cook
traditional Thanksgiving feast can be both
veggies without adding fat. And if green
healthy and flavorful without straying too
bean casserole is a family tradition, cut
far from the expected offerings.
the amount of soup and fried onions in half
Turkey ► Turkey is a healthy bird, but if you douse it in butter or deep fry,
to reduce fat and calories, or use fat free soup.
you’re looking for trouble. Make your turkey
Mashed potatoes ► Prepare
aromatic and flavorful with plenty of fresh
with skim milk, or skip milk altogether and
herbs like thyme, rosemary, marjoram,
use chicken broth or the water the potatoes
sage and/or oregano. Or include fruits like
were boiled in. If you use chicken broth, you
lemon, orange or apple in the cavity and
can also skip the butter without sacrificing
around the bird. Keep it moist by brining
flavor. This year, maybe try boiled or roasted
overnight. You can also keep your bird
little potatoes rather than mashed. You
moist by roasting it breast side down for the
can get all kinds of fun colors (red, purple,
first half of cooking, then breast side up to
white), and it’s a time saver over peeling
finish for a nice browning.
potatoes for a crowd.
Stuffing ► To minimize fat and
Pumpkin pie ► Use a whole
calories, don’t cook stuffing in or around
grain crust, low fat crust or skip the crust
your bird. In addition to the potential for
all together and make crustless pies in
food-borne hazards, the stuffing soaks up
mini-muffin tins. Better yet, make all of your
all the extra turkey fat from cooking. You’ll
desserts (pecan pie, chocolate pecan pie,
have better control of the fat content if
apple pie and so on) in a miniature form
you bake your stuffing separately. You can
and you’ll be able to enjoy a bite or two of
use turkey or chicken stock and olive oil to
your favorite sweets without the temptation
season and moisten your stuffing, keeping
of a whole slice.
the flavor intact while the fat content low.
Sweet potatoes ► Rather than
Leslie Guria lives in Johns Creek, and is
opening a can of yams, dousing it with sugar
a personal chef serving all of north metro
and butter, then covering with an entire
Atlanta. For great recipes, healthy and time
bag of marshmallows, here’s a lower fat
saving tips, visit Chef Leslie’s blog at www.
option. Peel and boil fresh sweet potatoes,
freshfromyourkitchen.com/blog.
TRUNK SHOW
DEC. 19TH -20TH 2225 Old Milton Parkway • Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-777-4800 • www.SabriGuvenFineJewelry.com
Monday - Saturday 10:00am to 8:00pm, Sunday 1:00pm - 6:00pm november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 9
goodeats
Save Room for Pie!
The Pie Hole bakery serves sweet treats in Roswell STORY & PHOTOS BY
Graham began selling pies at local farmers
KATIE VANBRACKLE
markets and was pleased with her
kvanbrackle@bellsouth.net
success. She noticed that there were lots of bakeries in the
Pie. for
It’s
not
just
area, but not a true pie shop.
Thanksgiving
anymore. Pie baking is
a
“My
and I always talked
year-round
about owning our
business at the Pie where the only thing on the menu is…yep, you guessed it. As owner
Fr
e r ri
s
,
e
Th
Hole on Canton Street
husband
an e k nb ra enp cra $ 4 is i n i e is , s r : a a to w sa e ri n g h e a p o f a p p l e s , p e ic e nd • Sl w al n 0 1 $ : u ts. W h o l e : $ 1 7 . 5 0 • H a lf
and head baker Alayne Graham
own business, and we knew that if we were going to do it,
we wanted to be on
Canton Street,” said Graham.
puts it, “We do pie and we do pie well.”
Two years into the business, Graham
Very well, in fact. Word of mouth from happy
says the restaurant is doing better than she
customers keeps the Pie Hole busy. Shoppers
ever imagined. She has been able to grow at a
strolling down Canton Street follow their noses to
reasonable pace without feeling overwhelmed.
the brown wooden barn tucked back in the trees
Graham still arrives early each morning to do the
for a slice of pie and a cup of warm tea. Drivers
baking herself, and receives assistance from a small
spot the small little sign on the left heading south on
staff in the afternoons.
Canton, which points to the Pie Hole’s small gravel driveway.
A few Pie Hole recipes were found in church cookbooks
from
the
1960s,
which
Serving up sweet treats are, from left, Heather Wright, owner Alayne Graham, Dylan Graham and Sarah Miller.
included
Inside the barn, Graham busily rolls out
traditional southern favorites like buttermilk pie and
chocolate chess and chocolate derby. Adventurous
homemade crusts while customers drool over
lemon chess. But over half of the pies are Graham’s
souls can try the Mango Key Lime or Pineapple
the glass display case showcasing the daily pie
own creations, the result of trial and error through
Coconut Pecan.
selection. One customer is surprised when the tall,
the years.
domed crust of the caramel apple pie is sliced to
The
All pies are made fresh in-house with no pears,
preservatives or canned or frozen ingredients, so the
reveal layer upon layer of tender fruit, all the way
apples, cranberries, raisins and walnuts into one
popular
Frankenpie
blends
selection changes with the seasons. Fruit pies such
to the very top. “You won’t find air pockets in our
tremendously tall pie. One of Graham’s favorites is
as peach, blueberry and strawberry are popular
pies,” Graham promises.
the Almond Joy, a sweet combination of coconut,
in the summer, while pumpkin, pecan and apple preside in the fall.
The Pie Hole is Graham’s first restaurant, but she
almonds and chocolate chips. Her son Dylan, who
has been baking for years. This self-taught pastry
helps out in the kitchen, enjoys the White Chocolate
For Thanksgiving, the Pie Hole will take pre-
chef actually honed her craft in the Australian
Derby packed with macadamia nuts and white
orders on certain pies such as pecan, sweet potato
Outback of all places.
chocolate chips.
with caramel nut topping and chocolate chess.
Customers may buy a whole pie, half of a pie
“My husband’s job in the military took us to a very remote spot in Australia,” Graham recalled.
or simply one slice.
A full list of pies can be found at www.facebook. com/thepiehole.
“There really was nothing to do, so we all found
Two meat pies are found on the menu, a
After all, no matter how much turkey and
hobbies to keep us occupied.” Graham chose
traditional chicken pot pie and a beef pot pie,
dressing you stuff onto your plate, there is always
to bake, beginning with breads and homemade
which can be ordered with a day’s notice.
room for pie. And if the perfectly made pastry that
The four top-selling pies year round are the
cinnamon rolls. When the couple moved to Roswell in 2001,
apple (with and without walnut crumb topping),
impresses all of your relatives this year is from the Pie Hole, well, that will just be our little secret.
The Pie Hole Left: The Pie Hole is located in a wooden barn just off of Canton Street in downtown Roswell. Center: Raspberry pie. Whole: $17.50,, half: $10, slice $4. Right: Traditional pumpkin pie. Whole: $15.50, $15.50, half: $9, $9, slice $3.50. $3.50
10 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
1025 Canton Street Roswell, Ga. 30075 678-461-3776 www.facebook.com /thepiehole
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 11
herbeauty Great skin starts by avoiding beauty miscues By CYNTHIA MORRISON EIKE
levels leave skin red, dry, irritated and susceptible to
Visage Designs by Cynthia, LLC
infection. Using fragrance and soap-free cleansers
Mistake #5: Over-exfoliating skin by
are great for all skin types and do not disturb pH
over-treating. Most anti-aging products being
With new products introduced everyday and
balance. Try Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash ($6)
introduced have Alpha or Beta Hydroxy acids as
little instruction on how to use them, here are ways
or Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser ($12) for gentle,
well as retinols in their ingredients. The naturally
to “goof-proof” your skincare routine and avoid
but effective cleansing.
derived, sugar-based acids loosen surface cells to
have enough concentration to be effective.
Mistake #3: Skipping Moisturizer for
increase exfoliation and allow new cells to surface
Mistake #1: Not washing your face.
face and body. Dry skin worsens in the winter
faster, while retinols penetrate deeper to exfoliate
Simply washing your face is the most important step
from dry air and forced heat, causing itching, flaking
and stimulate collagen production. Avoid using
in your skincare routine, and should be done twice a
and redness. Applying moisturizer within minutes
multiple products containing these ingredients at
day-- just like brushing your teeth. Removing makeup
of bathing will keep skin healthy and symptoms
the same time to prevent irritation. The best anti-
before bed ensures skin’s nightly renewal process
of eczema and other skin problems at bay. Using
aging moisturizing routine is to use the hydroxy
leaves a “clean slate” to work with. Makeup left
products that contain both occlusive (seals in
acids for daytime and the retinols at night. Try Alpha
on overnight will clog pores and slow the renewal
moisture) and humectants (attracts moisture)
Hydrox’s Enhanced Cream 10% AHA ($12) (apply
process down, leaving skin dull and tired looking in
properties are most effective for face and body. Try
SPF 15 over it) for day and Roc’s Retinol Deep
the morning. Equally important is a morning face
CeraVe A.M or P. M. for face ($14) or Moisturizing
Wrinkle Night Cream ($22) for nighttime.
wash to remove the sloughed off skin cells from the
Lotion for body ($14).
common mistakes.
Mistake #4: Paying more for useless
night before and create a fresh surface for makeup application.
ingredients. Don’t pay more for anything that
Mistake #2: Using harsh cleansers.
claims to add collagen or elastin into your skin. These
Harsh soaps and astringents are not necessary to
cosmetic molecules are just too large to penetrate
achieve clean skin. They can actually strip skin’s
the skin, so the best they do is temporarily provide
ideal pH balance of 5.5 and cause a rebound-effect
extra moisture. Any special active ingredient should
of overproduction of oils. The higher alkaline skin
be listed in the first few ingredients on the label to
12 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
Cynthia has been a makeup artist for over 25 years. She provides consulting and makeup application services through Visage Designs by Cynthia. Contact her at visagedesigns@gmail.com or at 770-331-9957.
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 13
give it a whirl Poo-Pourri Natural Air Freshener Spray Deodorizer If you hear a faint rumbling sound, it’s probably
The Promise ► The label reads: “Spritz the
leave the bathroom smelling fresh and citrusy
my grandmother rolling over in her grave. After all,
bowl before you go and no one else will ever know!”
without any hint of a cover-up. If anything, the scent
ladies don’t talk about things that go on behind the
Poo-Pourri is designed to be sprayed directly onto
is a bit strong, but compared to the alternative, I’ll
door of the “powder room.” This lady, however, lives
the toilet bowl water before you go, preventing any
take it. Poo-Pourri also sells a Royal Flush version for
in a house full of boys who have no such delicate
smell from escaping and leaving only a citrus-fresh
men with a eucalyptus/spearmint scent in addition
qualms. So when I heard of a product that promised
aroma after you flush. The company is so confident
to a holiday version with evergreen. Ho, ho, ho!! I
to eliminate bathroom odors, I was first in
they offer a 30-day unconditional money back
purchased the smallest size (2 oz., $9.95) which is
line to give it a try.
guarantee.
perfect for your purse or suitcase. The price is a bit steep, but as one online reviewer put it, “it’s a good
►
Poo-Pourri
The Test ► I’ll spare you the full details.
value when you consider how important this stuff
Natural Air Freshener Spray Deodorizer.
Suffice it to say that the little Poo-Pourri bottle
can be to the peaceful coexistence of man and
The
Product
Natural essential oils create a film on the
made its way through every bathroom in
surface of the toilet water, trapping
our home for a week. My sons thought the
odor at its source. The company
whole thing was funny, and my husband
promises that their citrus fresh blend of
was a good sport, even when asked to
lemongrass, bergamot, grapefruit and
give “sniff tests.” Thanks to our low-flow
other natural oils are safe for the planet
toilets, only a few spritzes were needed to
and your septic tank. While a bit hard to
cover the water’s surface.
woman!” So true, so true.
The Rating:
Four out of Four Stars
find in stores, you can order Poo-Pourri online at http://poopourri.com where
The Results ► I am thrilled to
a 4 oz. bottle (200 uses) is $14.95. SPECIAL
14 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
report that this stuff WORKS! It truly does
—By Katie VanBrackle
Christmas Open House
November 4th - December 24th
Offering one of a kind Santas along with lines by:
25% off
Mark Roberts | Lynne Haney Jacqueline Keats | Christopher Radko and many other companies
All Christmas
25% off All Accessories
We have wreaths and garland available Call for your appointment – We will decorate your home for the holidays!
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Visit My Website at www.PaulMartinInteriors.com 678-947-4899 | Fax: 678-947-4646 405 Peachtree Pkwy, Suite 135, Cumming, GA 30041
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 15
goodeats ITALIAN FLOURLESS STUFFING RECIPE (VEGETARIAN) By SALLy ByRD
Courtesy of Natural Foods Warehouse Ingredients: 1 loaf Ezekiel bread (You may also use Spelt (Berliner), Rice or Millet bread if you have severe grain sensitivities.) 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1 cup water or vegetable broth 1 large bunch of parsley, rinsed well chopped fine. 1 teaspoon oregano, fresh and chopped 4-6 green onions or 1 med. onion, chopped 4-6 cloves of garlic, chopped 2 eggs, large and beaten well 8 oz. chopped crimini mushrooms, (small portebellos/bellas) 3-4 stalks of celery, chopped fine with leaves 1/3 cup of chopped nuts-pecans, walnuts or almond slivers 1/3 cup dried cranberries or chopped Granny Smith green apples 1/4 cup shredded Pecorino or Locatelli (Italian sheep’s milk cheese) Olive Oil, extra virgin 1 Tbsp. Bell’s Poultry Seasoning, or fresh ground sage and rosemary Red pepper flakes, 1/4-1/2 teaspoon (optional, adds some zing!)
16 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
Salt, Celtic, Real or sea salt to taste Directions: Let bread sit out overnight in large bowl, covered with a cloth or paper towel. Tear into small bite-site pieces including the crust. Beat eggs until thoroughly blended in a small bowl. Heat butter and olive oil in the electric skillet or large frying pan. Add scallions, mushrooms, celery, parsley, oregano and garlic and cook down until translucent. Add water or vegetable broth and seasonings. Combine the heated vegetables into the large bowl with the shredded bread. Add the beaten whole eggs, nuts and cranberries or apples with the water or vegetable broth to the bread mixture. Mix well with a large wooden spoon or clean hands! Cook in skillet on low heat for 20 minutes. Spread the shredded cheese over the stuffing. Heat under the broiler in the skillet or move the mixture to the Pyrex dish (slightly greased with olive oil) until slightly browned and cheese melts. Serve warm with your favorite protein or vegetable dish. OPTIONS: Add 8 oz. of beef, lamb or veal sausage, 1/2 cup oysters or chestnuts to the vegetable saute.
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 17
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herhealth
Hair Transplantation Hair loss is a common concern
Unit
Transplantation
that affects both men and women
involves removing a strip of hair from
and can occur in areas of the body
the back of the head. Using this
such as the scalp, eyebrows and
technique, approximately 60 to 70
eyelashes.
treatment
follicular units can be planted per
options are available. Dr. Timani
square centimeter allowing for very
recognizes the emotional impact
natural looking density that resembles
hair loss has on her patients and
naturally growing hair.
constantly
Fortunately,
strives
to
offer
new,
Follicular Unit Extraction is a little
successful treatments for her eligible
more time consuming, but has quick
patients.
healing results and can use donor
Before any treatment can be considered, however, patients that
sites from other areas of the body. Dr.
Timani
is
introducing
present hair loss must undergo an
these treatments to her practice
evaluation with complete medical
in a continued effort to provide
history and
comprehensive
physical
examination
to ensure an accurate diagnosis. hair
transplantation
the
procedure
should
has
know
advanced
considerably in recent years. Two leading
treatments
now
include
Follicular Unit Transplantation and
dermatological
services to all her patients.
Candidates who are eligible for
Follicular Unit Extraction.
18 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
Follicular
Dr. Shereen Timani of Johns Creek Dermatology and Family Medicine.
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 19
theinterview
Shining the SPOTLIGHT on local talent
Ludwig Symphony Orchestra showcases emerging artists By KATIE VANBRACKLE
kvanbrackle@bellsouth.net Maria Clark grew up in rural Eatonton, Ga. where exposure to classical music was limited at best. She recalls being teased by classmates when she sang with school chorus groups. “What’s up with the opera voice?” they would laugh, as Clark belted out notes an octave higher than the normal range in a perfect falsetto. Her classmates may not have appreciated Clark’s natural talent, but her music teachers certainly did. They encouraged her to enter singing competitions
▲ DEVON MORGAN/PHOTOSYNTHESIS STUDIO
After graduating from the Manhattan School of Music, Clark completed a U.S. tour of Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess,” playing the principal role of Clara. She has also appeared in various Atlanta Opera productions and continues to win national and international vocal competitions. The Atlanta metro area is full of gifted singers and musicians like Clark who are often overlooked by local organizations such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, which Clark said tends to feature high-profile international talent. “It’s great to expose our area to international performers,” she said. “But we have an extensive pool of talent right here in metro Atlanta that is just as qualified.”
▲ SPECIAL
and to consider music as a career.
Enter Thomas Ludwig. Now in his 13th season as music director of the local Ludwig Symphony Orchestra (LSO), Ludwig reaches out to talented artists who may not have another place to perform.
Opera singer Maria Clark grew up in Eatonton, Ga.
“I’ll look under any rock for new talent,” said Ludwig. “I look for very serious performers. They must love music. That is very important to me.”
World-renowned conductor and composer Thomas Ludwig enjoys helping local emerging artists.
tell his number one goal is to make beautiful music.”
On Nov. 19, the LSO will host an International Festival Gala Concert at
Ludwig has been making beautiful music throughout his four-decade
the Gwinnett Center. As always, the program will include one world-class,
career. In addition to composing his own music, he has conducted world-class
internationally successful performer. Ning An, called China’s greatest virtuoso
symphony, opera and ballet company orchestras around the globe.
pianist, will play Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 1. But the program also prominently
Ludwig founded the LSO in 1998 with the goal of helping aspiring student
features three local performers, including Maria Clark who will sing arias by
musicians build their resumes. His 85-piece orchestra includes paid professionals
Mozart and Bellini.
and semi-professional adults, and a small component of extraordinarily gifted
This will be the second time Clark has sung with the LSO, which she describes as a very supportive, down-to-earth group.
high school string musicians. The LSO’s November concert will feature a violin performance by Johns
“It can be intimidating as a soloist to perform with an established symphony,”
Creek High School senior Angela Kim. Kim, who played with the LSO when she
she said. “But Maestro Ludwig is by far the most delightful and personable
was younger, is now a co-concert master chair of the Atlanta Symphony Youth
conductor I’ve ever worked with. He has a wonderful sense of humor. You can
Orchestra. She is excited about her first solo performance, the 10-minute Saint-
20 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
DEVON MORGAN/PHOTOSYNTHESIS STUDIO
Violinist Angela Kim is a senior at Johns Creek High School.
Saens Violin Concerto No. 3. Is she nervous? “A little,” Kim admitted. “But Maestro Ludwig is so nice to work with
doesn’t want to be educated. They want to enjoy themselves!”
Ludwig said about Kim’s solo. “It will blow her
first grade. “The very first time I heard a violin, I
mariachi band on stage with an actual horse. “If you can’t have fun, then why do it?” he asked. “The audience
“She is about to have a thrill, let me tell you!”
Kim has been playing the violin since
SPECIAL
particularly young people, with classical music. He once brought a
and he makes it all fun.”
away, in a good way, of course!”
Maria Clark sings at a concert at Peachtree Presbyterian Church in Atlanta.
At another concert, he surprised the audience and the SPECIAL
Nine-year-old ballerina Ellie Wong lives in Johns Creek.
was intrigued by the beautiful sound and asked my
musicians by sneaking a ballet dancer clad in a bikini and grass skirt onstage during Ludwig’s “Cocoanuts” Overture Fantasie. The dancer finished her piece, then snuck out through the bass players. “She did ruin my percussion section, though,”
parents for lessons,” she said. “I fell in love with it, and
Ludwig laughed. “They looked up and saw her and
I work very hard.”
forgot where they were in the music!”
Kim practices four hours a day, seven days a week and hopes to eventually become a college professor who teaches violin. Ludwig said it “touches his heart” to help young artists like Kim and Ellie Wong, a 9-year-old ballerina from Johns Creek who will also take part in November’s LSO concert. Wong will dance to Pugni’s Esmeralda Variation. Though Wong has won national ballet competitions, this will be her first time dancing with a live symphony. Ludwig describes Wong’s three-minute role in the concert as “a little chocolate mousse at the end of a delicious dinner.” At his concerts, Ludwig creatively finds ways to connect the audience,
Ludwig enjoys sharing his passion for serious, classical music with what he describes as an “evergrowing, musically astute, culturally diverse community” here on the Northside. This year, the LSO will perform three major programs featuring a mixture of world-renowned stars and outstanding local performers. Ludwig’s mission to nuture and support local talent is a reminder that sometimes, great treasures can indeed be found in one’s own backyard. For information on the Ludwig Symphony Orchestra and the Nov. 19 International Festival Gala Concert, go to www.ludwigsymphony.org. To hear Maria Clark sing operatic arias, go to www.mariaclarksings.com.
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 21
todo
SPECIaL
Holidays along the ‘Divine 9’ The alpharetta and roswell Convention and Visitors Bureaus have made it easy for you to enjoy shopping, dining, exploring and celebrating during the holiday season by publishing the Holidays along the divine 9 guide, which includes over 84 special events and activities marking the season. The activities will take place in the downtown areas of alpharetta and roswell off Highway 9, which runs from the river in roswell north through alpharetta. From musical performances and plays to open houses, special shopping opportunities and charity events, Holidays along the divine 9 is your guide to fun this holiday season. To view the guide, go to http://www.divine9ga.com.
22 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
woman'sbestfriend
Pet of the month Mersey is a 6-year-old Blue Heeler
in entering her in competitive agility
mix who is looking for a family and a
classes or shows, or a couple with no
home with room to run. She has waited
children. Other dogs are fine if they’re
a lifetime for her forever home. Her
easy going.
foster mom says Mersey likes nothing better than to sit
Find out more about Mersey at www.smalldoghumane.org.
in your lap and put
her
on
your
Mersey
head is
shoulder. a
great
running partner and will match any pace! Mersey does need a dog-savvy person who is a leader and will be consistent with
training.
Mersey
is
extremely
responsive
to
voice
commands.
Adopt Me!
The ideal home for Mersey would be a family with older kids, a single person who likes to run or be outdoors, someone interested
Welcome to our pet feature Please send us your news about rescue groups and vet questions. We will try to answer them and publicize your group!
editor@northside woman.com
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 23
‘11 H oliday Gift Guide An advertising supplement
Give yourselflf a h holiday lid gift! ift! Lookk rejuvenated j d
for the holidays with services from The Medical Day Spa at Georgia Plastic Surgery. During November and December, receive a 20% discount on custom blended facials and a 30% discount on a microcurrent facial. On Wrinkle-Free Wednesday (November 30 and December 28), Botox is $11 per unit and there’s a 20% discount on other injectables. Injectables are administered by Sheldon Lincenberg, MD, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Offices in Sandy Springs (400 and Abernathy Road) and in Cumming. 770 730-8222. www.gaplasticsurg.com
Give the gift of peace of mind by investing in your loved ones’ future. Robinson & Miller, P.C.
practices in the areas of Estate Planning, Elder Law, Special Needs Trusts, and Guardianships. With over 50 years of combined experience, our lawyers can develop a personalized approach to your individual legal needs. Robinson & Miller, P.C. is offering a Holiday Special: for couples, Two Advance Health Care Directives and an Estate Planning Consultation for the discounted rate of $79; and for individuals, only $49 for a consultation and one Advance Health Care Directive. Call 770-817-4999 to purchase these special gift certificates. Robinson & Miller, P.C. is located at 3460 Preston Ridge Road, Suite 100 Alpharetta, GA 30005 www.robinsonmiller.com
Shop and Stay Package We’ve been looking for you. Call or book online. 888-545-7638 facebook.com/plumleerealty
Join us in the mountains of North Carolina in Downtown Waynesville for our Shop and Stay package. Do all your Holiday shopping in Beautiful Downtown Waynesville our beautiful Inn is just one block form Main St. Receive discounts at some of the most exquisite stores in North Carolina. End your day with a Glass of Wine and Hors-Devourers while you take advantage of our complimentary wrapping station. Mid Week Stay (Mon-Thurs) with Breakfast $99.00 night
417 1st Street • Indian Rocks Beach, FL
Two Night Weekend Stay with Breakfast $230.00 (Package does not include tax) Package good thru December 24th 2011 Call to make your reservation today, 828-452-7837. www.herrenhouse.com
“Lovestruck ... the name of my brand new fragrance… Lovestruck Gift Set by Vera Wang. Retail $85.00 ($123.00 Value) This set contains: 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum Spray 5 oz Velvety Body Lotion
24 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
All about being overwhelmed, inexplicably, hopelessly in love. Allowing yourself to feel passion inspite of yourself, the situation, the repercussions. A new definition of Romeo and Juliet! Sexy, sensual, and unstoppable!” Vera Wang. The Fragrance Boutique 415 Peachtree Parkway • Cumming, GA 678-513-2434
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 25
northsideman Ed Magyer, owner of the Beverage Depot in Alpharetta, has looked deep into his extensive wine cellar to present his perfect pairings
for
the
traditional
Thanksgiving Day turkey or ham dinner. All of his dinner selections are under $20, and certain to earn raves from your guests.
Dinner Wines • • • •
Santa Barbara Winery, Pinot Noir 2009 ($19.99) Napa Cellars Chardonnay 2010 ($15.99) Louis Jadot Beaujolais Village 2009 ($12.99) Firestone Riesling 2009 ($9.99) Magyer also offers his choices
for the after-dinner drink, perfect for relaxing with dessert and wonderful conversation.
Dessert Wines • •
Fulton’s Harvest Pumpkin Pie Liqueur ($10.99) Jackson - Triggs Ice Wine ($23.99) Cheers!
26 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
Ed Magyer owner, Beverage Depot
3355 Highway 9, Alpharetta, Ga. 770-740-1410
Special Section ● Travel
Cut-your-own Christmas tree farms Visit the Georgia Christmas Tree Association at www. gacta.com for a complete list of tree farms in Georgia. When planning a visit to any tree farm, call ahead for hours and up-to-date information. Most farms also include hay rides, refreshments and assistance with cutting.
Bottoms Christmas Tree Farm – Cumming 5880 John Burruss Road, Cumming, Ga. 30040 770-889-5235 | www.bottomstreefarm.com The oldest operating Christmas tree farm in Cumming, the family business has added more activities each year to enhance the visit. Cut your own tree,
Hunters’ Christmas Tree Farm 14680 Wood Road, Milton, Ga. 770-475-0713 | www.hunterschristmastreefarm.com
or select from a variety of fresh-cut trees. Varieties include Blue Ice, Virginia Pine, Leland Cypress, Carolina Sapphire, Murray Cypress and fresh-cut Fraser Firs from North Carolina.
This family tree farm has been in business for more than 20 years, offering a wide variety of cut-your-own Leyland Cypress, Murray Cypress and Carolina Sapphire trees in the field (starting at $6/foot) or fresh cut Fraser Firs (starting at $8/foot). Opens the day after Thanksgiving. Closed Sundays.
Thompsons Tree Farm 1829 Prospect Road, Lawrenceville, Ga. 30043 770-513-2552 | www.thompsonstreefarm.gacta.com Located five minutes from the Mall of Georgia off I-85. Choose-andcut trees include Leyland Cypress, Murray Cypress, Blue Ice and Carolina Sapphire. Fresh-cut North Carolina Fraser Firs also available. Open seven days a week. Call for hours.
Southern Tree Plantation 2531 Owltown Road, Blairsville, Ga. 30512 706-745-0601 | farm@southerntreeplantation.com Located in the North Georgia mountains, Southern Tree Plantation is an active plantation growing thousands of pumpkins and Christmas trees each year. The farm opens in early October and stays open seven days a week through Christmas. Choose-and-cut trees include Colorado Blue Spruce, White Pine, Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir and White Spruce; or chose a fresh-cut Fraser Fir inside the Holiday Barn. Call for hours.
The Kinsey Family Farm 7170 Jot-em Down Road, Gainesville, Ga. 30506 770-887-6028 | www.kinseyfamilyfarm.com Opening the weekend before Thanksgiving, the Kinsey Family Farm will have over 2,000 Christmas trees available in its Christmas tree shop, or choose and cut your own tree from the vast plantation. Trees available include North Carolina Fraser Fir, Douglas Fir, Concolor Fir, Leyland Cypress, Carolina Sapphire, Ice Cypress, Norway Spruce, Eastern Hemlock and Deodar Cedar. Open seven days a week.
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 27
herstyle Plan for holiday excess when dressing for dinner It’s simple. Choose pieces that
By Maria Walden-Sullivan
are
functional
and
comfortable,
Owner, Vintage and Vogue
then dress them up with accessories. Keep in mind that someone is going
Thanksgiving is a time when we
to suggest taking a family picture at
tend to overeat, indulge in spirits of
some point during the day so you
the alcoholic kind, as well as in the
definitely want to look nice.
spirit of forgiveness and gratitude.
If you are doing the cooking,
While our hearts may expand with the
go for cool and comfortable (and
closeness of family, so may our waist
machine washable!). But if you and
lines with the abundance of food!
your family will be guests in someone
All we can think about is putting
else’s home, you need an outfit that
on comfy clothes with an elastic
allows you to wrangle kids, indoors
waistband for ease. Well, my fellow
and out.
‘live life to its fullest friends,’ there
If the gathering is casual, wear
comes a time in each of our lives
comfortable clothes like an oversized
where we stand befuddled in front of
sweater with leggings. Pop on a
the closet wondering what the heck
shearling jacket in case you need to
to wear in order look stylish, while also
make a cider run. Add wedge heels if
leaving room for an extra helping of
you want to get fancy.
pie?
The easiest thing to wear for
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topdoggolfcarts.com 28 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
770-887-RIDE
Thanksgiving Day (or any day, really)
What
should
you
avoid
for
is a dress; a dress is so very simple
Thanksgiving dinner? Anything that
(one piece and you’re out the door!)
doesn’t fit well to start with, particularly
and can be functional and pretty all
through the waist and hips; anything
at once. A dress also gives you ample
dry clean only, especially if you will
eating room without binding. Step
be helping with the dinner or tending
it up in a slick shift, that’s loose and
to small children; anything that looks
comfortable, then dress it up with
schlumpy and frumpy (no sweatshirts
leopard heels.
or yoga pants -- try harder, please).
If you’re more of a jeans-and-
This Thanksgiving, put as much
a-sweater mom, you can take it up
effort into dressing yourself as you put
a notch by adding a little bling to
into dressing the turkey -- you’ll be
your outfit. A stylish pin dresses up a
THANKFUL you did when you see that
cardigan, while a necklace is great
family photo.
over a tee. And fancy earrings will show up well in photos, making you look festive and pretty. Pull out the big guns for Turkey Day -- those gigantic pearls you never wear--or the pin you inherited from your grandmother –
Maria Walden-Sullivan is the owner of Vintage & Vogue, a clothing and accessories boutique in Roswell.
vintage is in!
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, LLC
Providing a full range of gastroenterology and liver disease consultation services. XXX BEWHBTUSP DPN t
Main Office: 4275 Johns Creek Pkwy, Ste A Suwanee, GA 30024 303 Pirkle Ferry Road Cumming, GA 30040
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8827B AdvGastro Screening Ad Northside.indd 1
www.advgastro.com
8/30/11 3:50 PM
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 29
Staff Recipes
NORTHSIDE WOMAN
goodeats
CORN A C SSEROLE
350 degrees Heat oven to d) pan (grease x Use 9 x 9 Pyre
r: Mix togethe ed corn m a re c n a 1c ot kernel corn (n le 1 can who drained) ter (melted) 1 stick of but ur cream so r 1 containe rn bread 1 box jiffy co ar cheese 1 cup chedd
30 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
ten 2 eggs, bea inutes to an
Bake for 45 m hour.
n use you ope I like it beca s, e g ka c a p up cans and ther, mix and e g to it w ro th ry easy and bake. It is ve delicious! ising ano, Advert —Helen Baus
Base: 1 can sweet potatoes (tall can) approx. 3 cups 1 cup sugar 1 stick butter 1 tbs. vanilla 2 eggs Topping: 1 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup flour 1/3 cup butter 1/3 cup chopped walnuts Blend sweet potatoes, add
sugar, butter, vanilla and eggs. Mix well. Pour in 7x11 glass pan or 9X13. Topping: Mix brown sugar, soften butter (don’t melt) and add nuts. Mixture will be dry and crumbly. Sprinkle over potato mix. Bake at 350 for one hour. This recipe reminds me of being with family and friends since we only have it once a year at Thanksgiving. —Mike Dorman, Advertising
goodeats good
SPECIaL
Newlywed Kristina Appen, center, will serve recipes handed down from her mother Rita Brown, right, and her grandmother Margaret Knight, left.
Knight girls’ recipes DOUBLE CITRON PIE MarGareT KniGHT Purchase a graham cracker piecrust in freezer section. Bake and cool 1/4 cup lemon juice 1 T orange zest. (grated orange rind) 1 15 oz. can Eagle Brand milk 2 cups fresh orange sections
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
KriSTina aPPen
3 cups mashed sweet potatoes. (approx. 2-3 sweet potatoes, peeled, cubed and boiled) 1 cup sugar 1/2 tsp. salt 2 eggs, beaten 1/3 stick melted butter 1 tsp. vanilla 1/2 cup milk. (a little more if
SAUSAGE STUFFED MUSHROOMS riTa BroWn
(approx. 8 oranges) 1 cup whipping cream (whipped) Combine lemon juice, zest and milk. Stir until blended. add 2 cups orange sections, fold in whipped cream. Pour into baked and cooled graham cracker crumb crust. refrigerate - serve and enjoy!
degrees. Preheat oven to 375 white 20-25 medium, whole d stems an d she mushrooms. Wa removed . (any 1 pound hot sausage brand) dar, grated 1/2 cup sharp ched d, seasoned she cru ely fin p 1/3 cu processor) d croutons (I do in foo d onion pe op ch 1/4 cup finely opped ch , ms ste m oo 5-6 mushr fine
you like it thinner) Mix all above ingredients together and put into ovenproof serving dish. Topping: 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup chopped pecans 1/3 stick melted butter Stir together and sprinkle on top of potatoes. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes.
onion and In large skillet, sautĂŠ stems in 1 chopped mushroom soft. add till r tablespoon butte brown d an llet ski sausage to n stir in the , fat in dra ly. gh thorou ns. uto cro d cheese and crushe le, nd ha to gh ou When cool en ch ea o int nt ou am l stuff libera at 375 mushroom cap. Bake cooked. are ps degrees until ca . tes nu mi -15 approx. 10 is great on * any left over filling baked potatoes!
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 31
Volunteer your time and your talents during the holidays by candy waylock
Have a few spare moments in the midst of your holiday bustle? There are dozens of
TA
waylock5@aol.com
use those extra minutes. Here a few community organizations that
e id h fi v e n o r t
small, but meaningful ways to
E K
can always use your time to make a major impact on the lives of others.
season through the family sponsorship
5
Become a foster parent. Open your home at the
program and Santa Shop. Nearly 800 families, consisting of 2,300 children are qualified to participate. NFCC
Volunteers and donations – both monetary and
a family” for the holiday season
products – are always welcome at this center, which
or to provide new toys and gifts
supports the needs of victims of domestic violence
for the Santa Shop. Seeing an
and their families. Items that are always in need
average of 100 families per day for
include diapers, baby wipes, laundry detergent,
food and financial support, the need
bed sheets, cleaning supplies and boxed foods.
continues to grow. By December, over
The center also accepts household goods and
1,000 families will have registered for holiday
clothing for its thrift store. To inquire about the many
support. For more information on this program and
volunteer needs at the center, contact Kristin at
volunteer opportunities, please visit the holiday
kristn-familyhaven@att.net.
website at www.nfccholiday.org.
holidays to provide a temporary home for animals rescued from shelters until they are adopted. The majority of rescues find a forever home within a few
Forsyth County Family Haven www.forsythcountyfamilyhaven.info
is looking for sponsors to “adopt
a si d s & t e w ips for o men
Angels Among Us Pet Rescue www.angelsrescue.org
Kroger, Home Depot or Office Depot.
The Drake House www.thedrakehouse.org
Atlanta Children’s Shelter www.acsatl.org Founded by the Junior League of Atlanta in 1986,
weeks. Can’t foster? Angels is always in need of
Volunteers are needed year round, and
the shelter celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.
supplies, such as crates, leashes, blankets, food and
especially during the holidays to help support the
It remains Atlanta’s only free childcare resource for
more. Or make a donation to help support rescue
programs that assist homeless women and children.
homeless children. Volunteers are needed in many
efforts. Best of all, volunteer to assist at pet adoption
Positions open for volunteers include general office
capacities, including each Thursday afternoon to
events and transportation.
workers, special event volunteers and mentors for
read books to preschoolers. If you have more time,
families. Volunteers are also needed at the newly
consider volunteering to be a classroom assistant
opened Drake Closet, a women’s resale boutique
helping the teacher with arts and crafts, field trips,
whose proceeds will benefit the Drake House. On
story time and more. For a list of the many volunteer
the holiday “wish list” are gift cards to Walmart,
opportunities available, visit the website.
North Fulton Community Charities www.nfcc.org NFCC will assist families during the holiday
32 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
SPECIAL
Atlanta Diamond Design supports Susan G. Komen for the Cure Atlanta Diamond Design recently to
donated
support
two
$1,300 of
their
customers who participated
sales over a three month period to support the breast cancer charity.
Pictured
during
the
check presentation are, from left,
in the Susan G. Komen 3Day
Charles Norton, Terri Israeli, Izzy
for the Cure last month. Owners
Israeli, Alison Bowden and Sherilee
Terri and Izzy Israeli set aside a
percentage
of
Metteer.
their
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 33
Judy Donnahoo, Carolyn Dillon and Hope Williams from Alpharetta Presbyterian Church sort through sweaters.
shegives
It takes a community to organize a closet! STORY & PHOTOS BY
The Drake Closet, a new ladies’ resale
KATIE VANBRACKLE
boutique at 825 Mimosa Boulevard in
kvanbrackle@bellsouth.net
Roswell. All proceeds from The Drake
Volunteers from various local
Closet will go to The Drake House,
churches, clubs and civic groups
which
worked together last month to help
housing and counseling to homeless
organize a warehouse full of clothing
mothers and their children in the
donations for the grand opening of
North Fulton area.
provides
short-term
E
W
S
34 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
crisis Untangling a heap of hangers are, from left, Bobby VanBrackle of Hopewell Middle School’s Junior Beta Club and Ken Newkirk of Roswell United Methodist Church.
goodeats NORTHSIDE WOMAN
Staff Recipes pecan halves
One pound One egg white water One tablespoon r ga One cup su salt One teaspoon cinnamon on po as te One and water in te hi Put egg w until frothy, but bowl and beat t cond bowl, sif not stiff. In se ur Po cinnamon. sugar, salt and g white and eg to in pecans
SUGARED PECANS
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Want your Northside Man featured? Northside Woman wants to hear about your Northside Man. If you know a man involved in weddings, health care or volunteering, send your nomination to editor@northsidewoman.com
You just might see him on the pages of the next Northside Woman, And he wins a t-shirt!
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 35
herthanks
NORTHSIDE WOMEN
reflect on year past Each year around the holidays, we visit with
women we have profiled in the past and ask them
JENNIFER M.
to reflect on what they are thankful for as the year comes to an end.
Maria Walden Sullivan Owner, Vintage and Vogue Consignment Boutique Despite an extremely crazy year, I have so much to be thankful for. The year started with my Dad in the ICU for two heart attacks. The entire family gathered with the knowledge he only had a short time left to live…yet my Dad is still with us today and as alert as he has ever been. I thank God for allowing me more time with him and for
MARIA
helping me to not take anything for granted. I am thankful for all of my wonderful friends who have supported me through a difficult divorce -- you find out who your friends really are in a time like this. I
SHELBY
am thankful for my loving son who stands by me, respects me and always brings sunshine whenever it seems as though a cloud is hovering above. For my store, Vintage and Vogue, and how it has been a saving grace for many reasons, and the vehicle that allows me to work with various charities. I truly thank God every day for giving me the strength, wisdom and health to strive to be a better person and do my part in helping to make a difference in our world.
Carla Driggs Foster parent
CARLA
Over the past year, our family has much to be grateful for. We are forever thankful for the foster children that have blessed our home and given so much to our family, especially our son and
Jennifer Manisco
daughter. Our children have a new awareness from
Founder, UB4Me Apparel
this experience. Things like diversity and personal
Something I have learned over this past year
sacrifice all come into play, and our children have
in starting this apparel company with a mission to
embraced them head on. We are thankful for their
“give back” is that there are so many people in our
willingness to accept these children and to love
community that voluntarily help others. Whether
them unconditionally.
it’s serving meals at the homeless shelters, helping
AMY Shelby Steinhauer Fulton County Teacher of the Year Milton High School French teacher
Our family also gives thanks to the community
support children in foster care, fundraising to help
Oh autumn! Grateful am I for gold and brown
that embraced us while having foster children in
find cures for terminal illnesses or voluntarily taking
and crimson leaves, dormant life in sleeping trees
our home, providing us support and guidance the
care of rescued animals...there are so many people
and the eternal promise of rebirth. One breath
past two-and-a-half years.
in our community that have a huge heart and
of life, one light in all, one soul throughout, one
We started this journey wanting to give a little
want to make a difference in the lives of others.
love to pierce the endless night. Grateful am I.
back, but in reality, the blessings back to us have
Before we began UB4Me Apparel, I did not realize
been tenfold. The children have given us so much
the number of selfless people we are surrounded
more than we could ever give them, and we are
by. I am thankful for a community that treats each
thankful to have them in our lives.
other like family, and feel blessed to be a part of it.
36 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
Amy O’Dell Founder, Jacob’s Ladder Center In the process of building Jacob’s Ladder, each
MAREE & SIENNA
JENNIFER S.
year has brought about many challenges and
I am thankful for my midwife Rachel and
many accompanying victories. This year, 2011 has
the beautiful homebirth she assisted us with. Her
been a monumental year of all things good. Our
encouraging ways helped me find the strength I
organization successfully raised the necessary funds
needed to get through the birth of Sienna.
to secure our campus in Roswell. I am able to look
I am especially thankful for my husband who
around me daily and see a staff of professionals who
has always given me more than I could ever hope
exemplify the cornerstone of our mission – providing
for. I am so thankful he chose to share his life
love, hope and healing. I am most thankful for the
with me. When I met my husband19 years ago, I
ability of continued witnessing of the good in others,
never dreamed we would be the parents of five
and what a powerful and positive catalyst we can
children!
be in each other’s lives.
Jennifer Smeth Marketing director, Harry’s Farmers Market
Maree Florence Parent of five children Update: We first met Maree in May 2010,
Thanksgiving and Christmas are my favorite
intrigued with the story of the home births of two of
times of year. While the food and presents are
her four children. The last line in the story was that
always nice, it’s the true meaning of the holidays --
her family was complete with four boys. Well…2011
being truly grateful for everything that I have -- that
had a surprise in store for the Florence family!
make it so special. 2011 has been a wonderful year.
As this year comes to an end and with the recent
My husband and I were blessed with the arrival of
birth of my daughter, I am simply thankful for life. I
our second daughter, Isabella, this past May. We
am thankful for the lives of the four amazing boys
have also witnessed our oldest daughter, Elecia,
who call me “Mom” and for my sweet daughter
thrive and blossom into an amazing big sister and
Sienna. I am thankful for their contagious laughter,
a responsible citizen wanting to volunteer to help
carefree spirits and unending adventures. I am
everyone from animals to emergency responders
thankful for the nights I lay in bed knowing they are
to those less fortunate in these difficult economic
all safe, healthy and happily sleeping in their beds.
times. Honestly as a mother, I can’t think of anything
I am grateful God has blessed me and our family
that I am more grateful for: two beautiful, healthy
once again with another baby. They are my joy.
and vibrant daughters!
Kid’s Creek is celebrating it’s 7th year of helping children reach their potential in North Atlanta. • Physical Therapy • Speech Therapy • Interactive Metronome • Hippotherapy • Handwriting Groups
• Occupational Therapy • Oral Motor Myofunctional Therapy • P.R.O.M.P.T. Speech Therapy • Feeding Therapy • Social Skills Groups
� Call now to sign up for our Summer Camps!
� Feeding Therapy Social Skills camp Are you up a creek about what to feed your Belly Dancing camp picky eater? Find help at the Food Explorers Moving with a Purpose Camp group! (utilizing SOS therapeutic feeding techniques Art Camp with a licensed nutritionist, ST and OT) Handwriting Camp Summer Fun Camp � Lindamood Bell Phoneme PROMPT and Play Summer Camp (an intensive speech camp utilizing the P.R.O.M.P.T. - Prompts for Restructuring Sequencing® Program (phonemic awareness for reading, spelling, Oral Motor Phonetic Targets - technique) and speech and develops cognitive processes related to word attack, and phonological Kid’s Creek is excited to announce the addition processing)
of new OTs and new STs on staff. We invite you to call or visit to learn about immediate therapy openings.
Kids Creek Therapy 3905 Johns Creek Court, Suite 250, Suwanee, GA 30024 | www.kidscreektherapy.com | 770.888.5221
Check out our website at www.kidscreektherapy.com
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 37
todo 1
Holidays Along the Divine 9 Through December 31. Enjoy shopping, dining, exploring and celebrating in downtown Alpharetta and Roswell with over 84 special events and activities marking the holiday season. From concerts and plays to shopping and family fun, the “Divine 9” corridor is the place to be. www.divine9ga.com
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▲ “Motherhood the Musical” Through Nov. 20. A baby is just the beginning. Motherhood is for life. It’s climbing the emotional mountain only to find laundry at the top. This hysterical, poignant fourwoman show is a must see for anyone who is, has or knows a mom. Tickets are $45. 14th Street Playhouse, 173 14th Street, Atlanta. www.woodruffcentertickets.org
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“Glimpses of the Moon” by Georgia Ensemble Theatre Through Nov. 20. This sparkling romantic music and dance extravaganza follows the jazzy whirl of New York society in the Roaring 20s as Susy and Nick seek millionaires to marry. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 38 Hill Street, Roswell. www.get.org
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NOVEMBER
Celebration of Hope 5K race and 2-mile walk 8 a.m. Run or walk through the White Columns community in Milton to benefit the American Cancer Society. Begins with a balloon race in honor/memory of a loved one. All participants receive a T-shirt and goody bag. $25 for 5K race and $15 for 2-mile walk. White Columns Country Club, 300 Clubhouse Drive, Milton whitecolumnscountryclub.com 73rd annual CFA Championship Cat Show Through Nov. 6. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. More than 300 cats and kittens of all breeds will compete for honors at one of the top cat shows in the U.S. No-kill shelters will have healthy pets for adoption. $8 for adults; $5 for children. Gwinnett County Civic Center, Duluth www.cottonstatescatclub.org
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Queen of Hearts holiday open house 6 – 9 p.m. Enjoy refreshments, giveaways and door prizes while you browse a large selection of antiques, furniture, holiday decorations and one-of-a-kind gifts. 670 North Main Street, Alpharetta. queenofheartsantiques-interiors.com
Mentor Training at the Drake House Nov. 3 at 6 p.m. and Nov. 8 at 10 a.m. RSVP to Cmerritt@thedrakehouse. org. New Volunteer Introduction on Nov 9 at 10 a.m. at the Drake House. RSVP to Lcanty@thedrakehouse.org or call 770.587.4712 ext. 305
8th annual Dahlonega Literary Festival Through Nov. 13. The city of Dahlonega celebrates the literary arts with reading panels, book signings by well-known authors and children’s activities. Sunday keynote speaker is Georgia’s own award-winning novelist Terry Kay. www.literaryfestival.org
Heck of a Hayride 6 p.m. Enjoy an old-fashioned family outing with a hayride around the park ending with roasting marshmallows and hot cocoa around the campfire. Space is limited, so register early. $10 for Roswell residents, $15 for non-residents. Meet at Roswell Area Park Lake Shelter behind the Visual Arts Building. www.roswellgov.com
A Very Southern Christmas at Barrington Hall Through Dec. 30. All day. From fireworks to fruitcake, from Christmas bags to the Pink Pig, come explore the many unique traditions that make Christmas in the South a truly memorable experience. Enjoy Barrington Hall dressed in the finest Christmas décor. Tickets are $8. www.southerntrilogy.com
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70th annual Northeast Georgia Arts Tour Through Nov. 13. This tour of regional artistry stretches across Lumpkin, White, Rabun and Habersham counties and showcases unique paintings, pottery, jewelry, crafts, fiber, wood, glass, furniture and more. Meet the artists and watch their demonstrations. www.artstour.org
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▲ “Cinderella” at the Milton Center Through Nov. 13. Christian Youth Theater Atlanta presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s version of the magical fairy tale which promises dreams really do come true. Tickets are $10-15. Performances held at the Milton Center Theatre, 86 School Drive, Alpharetta. www.cytatlanta.com
Backyard campout at the Chattahoochee Nature Center 5 p.m. Sleep under the stars, play games in the meadow and visit with nocturnal animals. Join the Tree and Forest Folklore hike for no additional cost. $45 per tent, pre-registration required. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. www.chattnaturecenter.org Ludwig Symphony Orchestra’s International Fall Festival 7:30 p.m. The LSO opens its 14th concert season with internationally renowned Chinese pianist Ning An,
38 | northsidewoman.com | november2011
local soprano Maria Clark and two talented Johns Creek girls: violinist Angela Kim and ballerina Ellie Wong. Tickets are $19. Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. www.ludwigsymphony.org
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“The Elf on the Shelf” at the Fox Theatre 4 p.m. The Fox Theatre in Atlanta becomes the North Pole for a day of festivities benefitting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. for children to play in Santa’s workshop and make ornaments before watching the new film “An Elf’s Story” featuring characters from the best-selling Christmas book. www.foxtheatre.org
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▲ “Oliver!” presented by ACT1 in Alpharetta Through Dec. 18. Alpharetta Christian Theater presents a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale of an orphan on the run who hooks up with a group of boys trained to be pickpockets. Tickets are $18. www.act1theater.com “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Cumming Playhouse Through Dec. 18. Gypsy Theatre Company presents the classic story of George Bailey, the Everyman from Bedford Falls who reaches rock bottom only to learn that his has been, after all, a wonderful life. The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street, Cumming. www.PlayhouseCumming.com
elves will install a special mailbox at the Wills Park Recreation Center for children to mail their letters to Santa, who promises to respond to all letters received during this time, provided the letter includes the sender’s name, address, age and wish list. http://alpharetta.ga.us
DECEMBER
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Atlanta Symphony Orchestra presents Handel’s Messiah Also Dec. 3. 8 p.m. Featuring the ASO Chamber Chorus, directed by Norman Mackenzie. Atlanta Symphony Hall, Memorial Arts Building, Woodruff Arts Center. Tickets are $29-$59. www.atlantasymphony.org www.atlantasymphony.or
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St. Ann’s Apple Annie Arts & Crafts Show Dec. 2, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Dec. 3, Saturday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Featuring over 100 distinguished vendors, famous Blue Light Raffle every 15 minutes, handmade quilt raffle, signature soups and snacks. 4905 Roswell Road, NE, Marietta, 30062
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Holiday book sale by Friends of the Roswell Library 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Good books at great prices to benefit the Roswell Library. The Roswell Friends recently received several large donations of like-new books, which will make this sale better than ever. 115 Norcross Street. www.forl.net Children’s Book Readings 11 a.m., 1 p.m. Award-winning authors Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick will read from their new children’s book “Tea With Lady Sapphire: Sharing the Love of Birds” at Autumn Hill Nursery & Landscaping’s Hickory Flat Location. Tickets are available at the nursery. Activities for the whole family, refreshments, Christmas trees and wreaths for sale. 4256 Earney Road, Woodstock, 30188. www.autumnhillnursery.com Roswell’s Lighting of the Square 5 p.m. Festivities include carolers, holiday lights, hot chocolate, a reading of T’was the Night Before Christmas and Santa arriving by fire truck. Intersection of Highway 9 and Highway 120 in Roswell. www.roswellgov.com
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▲ Neil Berg’s “Broadway Holiday” 7 p.m. This critically acclaimed musical revue features hits ranging from classic shows such as “My Fair Lady” and “South Pacific,” through ground breakers like “Chicago” and “West Side Story,” to current blockbusters like “Jersey Boys” and “Wicked.” Tunes also include much loved holiday favorites. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. www.cobbenergycentre.com
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Santa’s Mailbox in Alpharetta Through Dec. 9. Santa’s
City of Milton annual Tree Lighting 7 – 8:30 p.m. Join Santa on the corner of Webb Road and Highway 9 near the Milton Super Target for music, refreshments and a countdown to the annual tree lighting. www.cityofmiltonga.us
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Christmas Tree Lighting in Alpharetta 5 p.m. Enjoy the traditional lighting of Alpharetta’s 45-foot live tree with 10,000 lights. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by city fire truck to enjoy live holiday music, caroling, children’s activities and lighted train rides. FREE. Milton Avenue at 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta. www.alpharetta.ga.us
november2011 | northsidewoman.com | 39
The Doctor Is IN ANNOUNCING . . .
Extended Hours at Holcomb Bridge Saturdays—beginning Nov. 12 | 8 a.m. to noon Walk-ins Welcome | Call 770-650-8980 for an appointment.
We look forward to caring for you and your family! Monday through Friday | 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday—beginning Nov. 12 | 8 a.m. to noon Now accepting new patients and most major insurance plans, including Medicare.
at Holcomb Bridge 2612 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 100 in Alpharetta | www.NorthFultonPrimaryCare.com Located in the East Village Shopping Center, next to Super Target
40 | northsidewoman.com | november2011